4 cool zoos closest to Saguenay (Canada)

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends, exploring zoos can be both an educational and exciting experience. While Saguenay, Canada, is home to stunning natural landscapes, it also offers access to some fantastic zoos nearby. Here are four cool zoos close to Saguenay that promise a day filled with adventure and discovery!

Zoo de Granby

• Specialty: Home to over 1,500 animals and numerous species from all over the world.
• Ambiance: A beautiful setting that combines wildlife exhibits with amusement park rides, creating a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
• Highlights: Located about two hours from Saguenay, Zoo de Granby stands out with its diverse animal kingdom, including polar bears, African lions, and exotic birds. The zoo is divided into various themed areas, allowing visitors to journey through different habitats. Special events such as animal feeding sessions and educational talks add to the interactive experience, making it a great day out for families.
• Ideal for: Families looking for a mixture of wildlife encounters and amusement park fun in a spacious environment.

Parc Safari

• Specialty: A drive-through safari experience featuring North American and African wildlife.
• Ambiance: A blend of lush landscapes and carefully designed habitats that provide natural surroundings for the animals.
• Highlights: Situated just over an hour away from Saguenay, Parc Safari offers a unique vantage point to view exotic animals from the comfort of your vehicle. Visitors can see everything from giraffes to zebras and even participate in the interactive animal encounters. The park also features a water park and fun activities like a zip line, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment!
• Ideal for: Adventure seekers and families wanting a unique, immersive wildlife experience.

Zoo de Saint-Félicien

• Specialty: A focus on boreal wildlife, featuring local species in their natural settings.
• Ambiance: A serene, nature-oriented environment that encourages visitors to connect with the local fauna.
• Highlights: Located approximately an hour from Saguenay, Zoo de Saint-Félicien is renowned for its dedication to preserving northern species. Visitors can observe wildlife such as moose, wolves, and bears in expansive enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. The zoo also offers unique visitor experiences like walking through a live animal enclosure, making it perfect for anyone looking to learn more about local ecology and wildlife conservation.
• Ideal for: Nature lovers and those interested in the conservation of local ecosystems.

Montreal Biodome

• Specialty: An immersive environment showcasing various ecosystems, featuring both animal and plant life.
• Ambiance: An educational facility that beautifully intertwines science and nature, providing a vibrant atmosphere.
• Highlights: Although a bit further away (around 4 hours from Saguenay), the Montreal Biodome is worth the trip for its astonishing representation of different ecosystems, including the tropical rainforest, polar regions, and even the Laurentian forest. Visitors are welcomed into simulated habitats bustling with wildlife. With educational programs and exhibits throughout the year, it’s a perfect destination for both children and adults looking to expand their knowledge about biodiversity.
• Ideal for: Educational outings and engaging experiences for families and school groups.

Extra Tips:

• Check the websites of these zoos for seasonal events and special exhibits before planning your visit.
• Consider making a day trip to cover more than one zoo if time allows for it.
• Bring snacks and water, but also check out the on-site eateries for a taste of local cuisine.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the memorable moments with wildlife!

Whether you're looking to experience exotic animals, learn about local wildlife, or simply enjoy a day in the great outdoors, these four zoos near Saguenay offer unique and engaging experiences that are well worth the journey!